Line Editing for Filter Words
Line editing for filter words is a skill to master for line editors.
Tips on Line Editing for Filter Words
Filter words in fiction are words that get in the way of the reader experiencing the moment. These often relate to senses: “I saw John get out of the car” instead of “John got out of the car.” The second version allows the reader to experience the scene more directly, as if they are right there themselves watching John get out of the car.
Similarly, “Roger heard the bell ring” versus “The bell rang.” In the first case, we are a step back from the bell, and in the second, we’re right there as the bell rings.
One of the most common filtering phrases you’ll encounter as a line editor is pronoun + felt:
Here’s an example:
I thought of Good Dog’s injuries, and just as Beyok predicted, I felt my blood run hot.
Removing those filter words, it becomes:
I thought of Good Dog’s injuries, and just as Beyok predicted, my blood ran hot.
A writer colleague of mine gave me words to live by: “Never let a character feel something unless they’re actually touching it.”
Tips for Editors & Writers
-
How to Create Defensible Edits
As a developmental editor, you need to know how to create defensible edits of a manuscript to help authors put out their best work. Tips for How to Create Defensible Edits When you’re doing a developmental edit—looking at the big-picture overview of a novel—you’ll generally be expected to provide two main services: The editing on…
-
When Is a Book Ready for Editing?
Both authors and editors have the same question at some point in the book writing / publishing process: When is a book ready for editing? So When IS a Book Ready for Editing? The creative process is not timely and linear, which is why, as an editor, I don’t book edits before an author’s manuscript…
-
Effective Client Communication for Book Editors
Managing client expectations is necessary for a successful business so here are my tips for effective client communication for book editors. My Top Tip for Effective Client Communication for Book Editors One way to avoid an unhappy client is to communicate all relevant information from the very beginning of your relationship with them. Clearly stated…
Join the Club!
New to story editing? Begin at the beginning.